Krabi:The azure waters and intricate island chains of Krabi province were declared Thailand's 47th national park on October 6, 1983, under the name "Nopparat Thara Beach-Phi Phi Islands National Park." For over 43 years, this destination has attracted tourists worldwide with its unique charm and natural beauty.
According to Thai News Agency, the national park covers approximately 387.90 square kilometers, with over 80% being marine area. It includes the coastline from the mainland to numerous islands in the Andaman Sea, making it a hotspot for biodiversity and geological wonders.
The Phi Phi Islands, part of the park, consist of Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. Phi Phi Don serves as the central hub for tourism, while Phi Phi Leh is known for its limestone formations and picturesque beaches such as Maya Bay. Other islands like Poda and Chicken Island are renowned for their pine forests and coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling.
Inland, Nopparat Thara Beach, Railay Bay, and Phra Nang Cave Bay offer stunning vistas and rock climbing opportunities. The Khao Hang Nak viewpoint provides panoramic views of Krabi town. A unique geological feature is the "Laem Pho Shell Cemetery," home to 20-40 million-year-old fossilized shells, one of only three such sites worldwide.
In recent years, the park has focused on sustainable tourism and natural resource management. Maya Bay, once severely degraded due to over-tourism, was closed to allow for ecological recovery. The coral reefs have begun regenerating, and blacktip reef sharks now swim near the coast again.
The park has implemented modern tourism management practices, such as a new pier at Loh Samah Bay and restrictions on beach docking and swimming to protect marine life. These efforts have made the national park a model for eco-tourism recognized internationally.